This episode is a goofy interpretation of the Twilight Zone episode "It's a Good Life".

There are two possible references to the anime/manga "Akira". One being using a child as a psychic weapon and having Sam and Max fight a giant teddy bear (which Akira, the main character, had to fight similar enemies at one point).

When Sam and Max are being pushed on the trolley, a Dalek from Doctor Who can be seen in the background.